Patriots Monument

Patriots of African Descent

In 1993, Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. erected the Patriots of African Descent Monument in Valley Forge National Historical Park. The monument is the first in a National Historical Park that honors the contributions made by the Black soldiers who fought in the American Revolutionary War. The 9-foot-tall granite monument stands on Route 23, as a lasting tribute to those patriots who served during the Valley Forge encampment 1777-1778.

More than 5,000 Black soldiers fought in America’s war for independence. During the Valley Forge encampment, hundreds of Black patriots served, suffered and trained throughout the harsh winter. Salem Poor and Peter Salem, heroes of Bunker Hill, were at Valley Forge. Civilian Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, brought supplies to the troops at Valley Forge. Well-known baker Cyrus Bustill supplied food to the starving men and women at the encampment. Edward Hector of Conshohocken distinguished himself as a hero during the war.

Since its chartering in 1991, Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter has been a supporter of Valley Forge National Historical Park initiatives and the park’s commitment to preserve and educate visitors about the diverse cultures that contributed to our Nation’s quest for freedom.


 

PURCHASE A PRINT

You are now able to purchase a print of the Patriots of African Descent Monument online. Purchasing a print will go towards continuing to educate those about the diverse cultures that contributed to our Nation’s quest for freedom.

Prints